As thousands of people get ready to leave their homes to drive to safety ahead of Hurricane Irma, public safety officials are passing along information drivers can use to stay safe on the roads.

Contraflow begins on Saturday at 10 a.m. on I-16, between Dean Forest Road and Dublin, when the mandatory evacuation is in effect. Eastbound traffic will be blocked off about two hours before contraflow begins. Drivers can use seven exits, both from the westbound and eastbound lanes, during their trip. Those exits are intended for people to be able to use the restroom, get gas, food or water. Those exits are 143, 116, 104, 90, 71, 67 and 51.

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Georgia Department of Transportation officials say the Talmadge Bridge will close if there are gale force winds reported in Savannah, because it will be too dangerous for vehicles to be on the bridge if that happens.

In South Carolina, while a mandatory evacuation has not been ordered as of now, it will go into effect Saturday morning if the Governor decides to issue the order. A mandatory evacuation in South Carolina will mean there will be lane reversals on US 278 and US 21 as well as I-26 near Charleston, which would go into effect at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

Traffic officials remind drivers to keep a safe distance between them and the car in front of them at all times. They also say to bring plenty of water, snacks and entertainment for passengers as delays are expected.

For road information, call 511 in both Georgia and South Carolina. 511 can be used if you need assistance in Georgia and *47 can be used for assistance in South Carolina.